Special Correspondent
Ukhrul/Kamjong, March 24:
Tension continues to grip parts of Kamjong district as the Sikibung Village Authority and the Kamjong Students’ Union (KSU) issued strong condemnations over separate but related incidents of armed violence allegedly carried out by Kuki militants, leaving civilians injured and triggering widespread fear.
In a sharply worded statement, the Sikibung Village Authority described the attack as “heinous and cowardly,” alleging that the village was surrounded from all sides and subjected to indiscriminate firing beginning around 2:00 PM on March 23. The sustained gunfire reportedly struck several residential houses, creating panic among women, children, and the elderly, and forcing villagers to remain in fear for their safety.
The situation escalated further on the morning of March 24 when the firing resumed. Two civilians sustained grievous injuries in what is believed to be targeted shooting. The injured have been identified as Rinyui Ramror (41), son of Mayonmi Ramror, and Reichan Lungleng (24), son of Mungreingam Lungleng. Both victims were reportedly shot while the militants continued firing at any visible movement in and around the village.
The Village Authority alleged that Central security and paramilitary forces stationed nearby failed to intervene, terming their inaction as “leniency” that emboldened the attackers. It further asserted that any continued assault on villagers would be viewed as deliberate support extended to the militants by the forces present in the area. Calling for restoration of normalcy, the Authority demanded the immediate withdrawal of Central security and paramilitary forces from Mongkot Chepu and surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, the Kamjong Students’ Union also expressed deep concern over a separate incident reported at around 8:30 PM on March 23, where suspected armed individuals identified as Kuki militants allegedly opened fire using automatic weapons in civilian areas of Kamjong headquarters.
The student body stated that the indiscriminate use of firearms created an atmosphere of panic and insecurity, posing a serious threat to public safety and communal harmony. Notably, the incident reportedly occurred in close proximity to security installations, including those of the Assam Rifles, raising serious questions about the effectiveness and response of security forces.
Demanding swift action, KSU called upon the district administration and the Government of Manipur to immediately de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of civilians. It urged authorities at Chassad to clarify the circumstances and identify those responsible within 24 hours.
Warning of stronger measures, including restrictions on movement if the situation persists, the Union stressed the urgent need for accountability and decisive intervention to restore peace and public confidence in the region.